On the mic with MC Mikay
In the Ghanaian entertainment industry, a new crop of talented individuals have been making waves as masters of ceremonies or emcees.
Once considered a niche profession, emceeing has gradually evolved into a respected craft, with skilled performers bringing their unique blend of charisma, creativity and showmanship to the fore.
Gone are the days when emceeing was seen as simply introducing acts or filling gaps between performances. Today, emcees are integral to the success of events, concerts and festivals, using their quick wit, sharp tongues and infectious energy to engage audiences and elevate the overall experience.
In Ghana, names such as the late Godwin Avenorgbor, Kwesi Kyei Darkwa (KKD), Kwame Sefa Kayi, Kofi Okyere Darko (KOD) and, in recent times, Ahuma Ocansey are household names.
They entertain crowds with their smooth flows, clever wordplay and effortless stage presence.
As the industry continues to evolve, it's clear that emceeing has become a respected and sought-after craft on Ghana's entertainment scene.
MC Mikay
Michael Kwame Gyan, better known as MC Mikay, is one of the young emcees with a passion for seeing the craft thrive.
As a talented master of ceremony, he’s driven by a deep desire to engage and communicate with his audience, leaving a lasting impression wherever he goes.
With over five years in the industry, Mikay is building a strong brand for himself in the field.
From prestigious weddings and corporate events to funerals, music concerts and award shows, MC McKay infuses each occasion with his unique blend of charm, wit and boundless energy.
His ability to think quickly, captivate crowds and maintain high energy has earned him widespread admiration.
In a sit-down interview with the Daily Graphic, he reflected on his journey, revealing that his passion for public speaking started in his childhood days.
His early experiences at local community events, school gatherings and church functions were the first steps in what would later become a blooming career.
Even as a young child, he loved storytelling and engaging audiences, whether during school presentations or family events.
The thrill of capturing an audience's attention with words, humour and gestures resonated deeply with him, ultimately planting the seed that blossomed into his successful career as an emcee.
"From the moment I first stepped onto a stage with a microphone in hand, I knew I had discovered something special — a way to connect with people that was both exciting and deeply fulfilling.
"My journey as a master of ceremonies has been a continuous path of growth, driven by my passion for communication, love for live events and a deep desire to create unforgettable experiences for others,” he shared.
He credits these early experiences as invaluable, as they gave him the opportunity to experiment with various styles, understand the dynamics of live audiences and build his confidence.
"Every event was a learning experience, teaching me how to read the room, improvise when needed and keep the flow of the programme seamless," he reflected.
"One of the most important lessons I learned during this time was the value of authenticity. Audiences can tell when an emcee is being genuine, and they respond far better when they sense the person on stage is truly being himself. This realisation helped me find my unique voice as an emcee."
"As I continued to refine my craft, I came to understand that being an emcee is much more than just hosting an event. It's about forging a connection between the audience and the experience, ensuring that everyone in the room feels engaged and involved," he added.
True satisfaction
For him, true satisfaction in his work comes from knowing that he played a part in creating a memorable experience for others with his words and presence, leaving a lasting impact on their events.
“This sense of purpose is what motivates me to constantly improve and refine my craft,” he explained.
He draws inspiration from notable figures like Kwame Sefa Kayi, the renowned host of Peace FM's Kokrokoo, as well as the energetic audiences he has had the privilege of engaging with throughout his career.
"Throughout my journey, I’ve been inspired by many great emcees, especially Kwame Sefa Kayi, also known as Chairman General. But I’m also deeply inspired by the audiences I’ve connected with. Their reactions, feedback and energy have continuously fueled my passion and reminded me of the profound impact a skilled emcee can have."
"Looking ahead, I’m excited about the future and the possibilities it holds. The world of live events is always changing, and so is the role of the emcee. Whether it’s embracing new technologies, adapting to various types of events, or discovering innovative ways to engage with audiences, I’m committed to evolving and growing in my role as an emcee," he concluded.
